There are literally hundreds of tips and tricks that can be used to fix various problems with Windows XP. In this article, I look at a higher level approach to solving a many of the issues that can plague Windows XP (and other flavours of Windows) users.

Random pop up messages, strange error messages, stubborn setting that don’t alter no matter how often you try? These are all common problems with Windows XP and are instigated by relatively few aspects within Windows.

Before shelling out for your local PC repair man, make sure that you have followed this step-by-step guide outlined below to determine if you can’t fix your PC problems before parting with your hard earned money.

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Here’s my six step guide to a healthy Windows PC.

1. Make sure Windows Update is updating your machine regularly.

Is Windows Update automatically checking for patches and updating your computer with the latest patches from Microsoft? They spend a lot of time sorting security holes in Windows and its wise to upload the latest fixes. To check that you are installing updates, go to Start, Control Panel and select System. Select Automatic Updates and make sure that “Turn of Automatic Updates” is NOT SELECTED.

2. Remove any malware, spyware or adware

The bane of modern day computing, malware, spyware, adware, whatever you want to call it, infects the Internet today and can come from the most unexpected sources. Causing a significant array of problems with Windows XP, you should cleanse yourself of these blighters by installing a malware/adware/ spyware remover. If you’re looking for a good one, I review what I consider to be the best malware remover on the Internet on my site that guarantees 100% removal. Rooting out malware can significantly diminish the number of errors (particularly random ones) that you have on your PC today.

3. Make sure that clean up your hard disk

Lots of files and applications that are not needed on your PC can contribute to performance problems with Windows XP. Emptying out your recycle bin and removing any temporary Internet files is a good way to begin. If you don’t know how to do this try Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, Disk Cleanup and delete the files you don’t need!

Make sure that you periodically clean up your computer and make sure that you have at least 15% of your hard disk available (if possible). This will allow you to defragment your disk effectively (described below)

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4. Get rid of any unwanted applications

It’s why we have Windows, to run programs. However, adding more and more applications will cause our computers to perform poorly and/or allow applications to affect one another. Regularly cleansing any unwanted applications can reduce performance issues and keep your computer ticking along smoothly.

To remove old applications, navigate to Control Panel and choose Add or Remove Programs. Go through each of your programs uninstalling those that you no longer use.

5. Clean up and fix the registry

The registry was a major step forward for Windows when added post Windows 3.1 (I think). It eliminated the requirement for vast numbers of configuration files but still kept relevant information in one convenient place. As the flavors of Windows have progressed and the registry has been progressively more utilized by applications, it has grown both in volume and complexity. Registry issues can occur for a number of reasons and it is not beyond the wit of man to resolve some of them out manually – although I would strongly advise against it. Alternatively, find a good registry cleaner (I review registry cleaners on my site) that will not only cleanse your registry, but will provide you with the tools required to resolve many issues with Window XP, Vista and other flavors of Windows described in this page.

6. Defrag your Hard Drive

As you hard disk fills, files will be broken up and stored in different parts of your hard disk, something Windows does to use disk space more effectively. This can cause performance problems with Windows XP but can be prevented if you defragment your hard drive using the defrag tool built into Windows.

To defragment your hard drive:

i. Bring up ‘Control Panel’ (Start -> Control Panel)

ii. Open ‘Administrative Tools’

iii. Click on ‘Computer Management’

iv. Under ‘Storage’, select ‘Disk Defragmenter’ and click on Defragment

It is advisable to do this periodically to maintain your drive well defragmented.

I’m hoping this short report has given you a simple introduction to the approach you can take to resolve problems with your Windows XP installation. Performing these tasks regularly will prolong the life of the installation and provide a better user experience.

You can view other performance improving tips on Seven Ways to Speed up you Computer